The Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh, USA is one of the most anticipated consumer home events in the Southeast, drawing homeowners, interior decorators, builders, renovators, and design enthusiasts under one roof. Held annually, this immersive event showcases the latest trends, technologies, and services in the home and garden industries. From kitchen upgrades to landscaping ideas and home automation to energy-efficient products, the show is a one-stop destination for all things home improvement.

Whether you’re planning to renovate, redecorate, build a new house, or simply looking for fresh ideas, the Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh offers a unique platform where creativity meets practicality. The event has a long-standing reputation for connecting homeowners with trusted professionals and innovative brands.

Venue and location details

The Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh is hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, specifically in the Exposition Center and Jim Graham Building, conveniently located at 1025 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607. This venue offers ample space for hundreds of exhibits and is equipped with modern amenities and easy access for attendees traveling by car or public transportation.

Parking is free at the venue, and clear signage and friendly staff ensure smooth entry and navigation throughout the event halls.

Dates and timings of the event

The show typically takes place in April every year. For the 2025 edition, the expected dates are:

• Friday, April 11, 2025: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday, April 12, 2025: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Sunday, April 13, 2025: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Please confirm the exact dates and timings on the official website as they may vary slightly.

Ticket pricing and entry information

The Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh offers tickets at affordable prices, making it accessible to a broad audience:

• General Admission (Adults): $10 at the door
• Online Advance Ticket: $8 (Discounted)
• Children (under 12): Free when accompanied by an adult
• Senior & Military Discounts: Available with valid ID

Tickets can be purchased online in advance or directly at the gate. Online ticket purchase is encouraged for quick entry and potential discounts.

Main product categories and exhibitor highlights

The Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh features a wide array of product categories and services. With hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their offerings, visitors can explore:

• Home renovation & remodeling services
• Custom kitchen & bathroom designs
• Interior décor and furnishings
• Landscaping and outdoor living ideas
• Smart home automation and security systems
• HVAC, insulation, and energy-saving technologies
• Flooring, roofing, and siding solutions
• Home financing and insurance guidance

Top brands, regional service providers, and emerging innovators participate in the event, providing live demos, consultations, and exclusive discounts.

Visitor profile and estimated footfall

Each year, the show draws over 20,000 visitors from Raleigh and neighboring regions. The audience is a mix of homeowners, first-time buyers, real estate professionals, architects, and designers. The interactive nature of the show creates opportunities for direct communication between vendors and consumers, resulting in high engagement and networking.

Exhibitors frequently report positive outcomes from participating, including strong leads and increased brand awareness, thanks to the steady and targeted visitor turnout.

Nearby hotels and accommodation options

There are several well-rated hotels close to the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, ensuring a comfortable stay for both exhibitors and attendees:

• Ramada by Wyndham Raleigh – Just a 3-minute walk from the venue
• Aloft Raleigh – A trendy boutique hotel around 10 minutes away
• Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Cary I-40 – Comfortable and convenient
• DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh Crabtree Valley – Premium stay with great amenities
• Hyatt Place Raleigh West – Ideal for business travelers and families alike

Most hotels offer amenities like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and shuttle services, and early bookings are advised due to high demand during event dates.

Benefits of attending the Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh

Attending the Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh comes with numerous advantages:

• Discover the latest trends: Stay updated with new home styles, technologies, and materials
• Connect with local experts: Speak directly with builders, designers, and remodelers in your area
• Take advantage of show specials: Many vendors offer exclusive show-only discounts and packages
• Get inspired: Live demos, model rooms, and garden displays spark creativity
• Learn from pros: Attend free seminars and expert-led workshops on home improvement and interior design
• Interactive experience: Enjoy product trials, hands-on exhibits, and Q&A sessions
• Family-friendly atmosphere: The event is designed to be enjoyable for all age groups, making it a perfect weekend outing

Special show features and attractions

The Southern Ideal Home Show often includes additional features that enhance the visitor experience:

• Designer Rooms Showcase: Walk through professionally designed rooms for décor inspiration
• Garden Market: Shop plants, tools, and landscaping materials
• Kitchen Stage Demos: See top chefs demonstrate home cooking tips and tricks
• Ask the Expert Booth: One-on-one consultations with home professionals
• Giveaways & contests: Attendees have the chance to win exciting prizes, including home appliances and service vouchers

These features make the event more than just a trade show—it becomes an experience filled with learning, discovery, and entertainment.

Tips for first-time attendees

If this is your first time attending the Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh, here are a few helpful tips:

• Arrive early: This helps avoid crowds and gives you more time to explore
• Bring floor plans/photos of your home: Useful for getting tailored advice from vendors
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking and standing a lot
• Take notes and collect brochures: So you can compare options later
• Use the show map or app (if available): To plan your visit and find your favorite booths
• Be open to ideas: The show is a fantastic place for inspiration, even if you aren’t planning a project right away

The Southern Ideal Home Show – Raleigh, USA continues to be a premier event for anyone looking to improve or personalize their living space. With its diverse exhibitor base, expert insights, and hands-on experiences, it offers unbeatable value for homeowners and professionals alike. Whether you’re in the ideation stage or ready to hire contractors, the show connects you to everything you need under one roof.